READY TO JOIN THE FAMILY
What it Takes to
Open Your Franchise
Our ideal franchise partners are passionate about great food, community, and building something meaningful. While restaurant experience isn’t required, a strong entrepreneurial spirit—and background in business, sales, marketing, hospitality, or retail—is a great foundation. What matters most is your commitment to delivering authentic Italian flavors and unforgettable guest experiences.
STEP 1
Submit Application
Information will be held strictly confidential and will be used only to determine preliminary qualifications to purchase a franchise. Your application is non-binding and does not obligate you or Russo’s New York Pizzeria. Preferred geographic areas listed on your application will be evaluated at this time.
STEP 2
Evaluation & Approval
During the evaluation process, you will sign the Confidentiality/Non-Disclosure Agreement, which is necessary to assure the security of all information that we exchange during the candidacy process. A signed and returned NDA is necessary for us to proceed. The decision to award a franchise is based on numerous factors conducive to a mutually beneficial business endeavor.
STEP 3
Sign Contract & Location Search
Welcome to the family! You will spend a day at our Corporate Office meeting the team and signing all documentation. During this time, we will begin discussions of your location search. We will assist you in all aspects of site location from demographic study to the physical characteristics of the location, and we will evaluate all locations that interest you. Finding the perfect location is crucial and this undertaking will receive our full consideration. Note: The initial franchise fee is due at the time the contract is signed.
STEP 4
Turn Key Build Out: Construction & Design
We offer a turn key build out and we offer support on floorplan development, kitchen layout and interior design, furniture and all fixtures. We will assist the entire way as you’ll plan and construct your first restaurant, hire and train restaurant management and staff, and set up the supply chain.
STEP 5
Training & Development
The training consists in 2 phases; first 6 weeks covers both FOH and BOH operations, processes, and procedures. Your comprehensive training plan will be scheduled at our training store located in Houston, Texas. Second 3-4 weeks will be scheduled at your store to train, setup and prepare the restaurant to operate.
STEP 6
Pre-Opening & Opening
Our operations team will be on site to support you with all aspects of your new store opening. From smallwares delivery and kitchen set up, to training your staff, and preparing for a Friends and Family or a Charity Night, and of course your opening day. We also offer continuous support if requested.
STEP 7
On-Going Support
Our operations team maintains constant communication with all franchisees. You will continue to receive operating and marketing support to assist the growth of your restaurant.
STARTUP COSTS & FEES
What it Costs to Open a Russo's Pizza Franchise
Each of our locations is tailor-made to suit your market, providing a distinct competitive edge over other pizza or Italian concepts in today’s marketplace. Your total initial investment may vary depending on factors such as the site location, number of seats, design specifications, and square footage.
| ITEM EXPENSE | LOW | HIGH |
|---|---|---|
| Initial franchise fee | $35,000 | $45,000 |
| Business license, permits, utility deposits, etc | $5,000 | $10,000 |
| Lease and other rental expenses | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Architectural | $12,000 | $30,000 |
| Engineering | $4,000 | $10,000 |
| Furniture fixtures and equipment | $134,425 | $282,000 |
| Electronic cash register system | $7,500 | $15,000 |
| Signage | $9,500 | $25,000 |
| Manager training cost | $10,00 | $25,000 |
| Operation capital | $20,000 | $50,000 |
| Initial inventory | $9,000 | $30,000 |
| Insurance deposits/premiums | $5,000 | $10,000 |
| Grand opening advertisment | $10,000 | $15,000 |
| In-store opening training | $7,500 | $25,000 |
| Site evaluation expenses | $1,000 | $3,000 |
| Leasehold Improvement | $144,425 | $900,000 |
| TOTAL | $429,425 | $1,490,000 |
*The information contained on this website is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy a franchise. The franchise information contained herein is not directed to the residents of any particular jurisdiction. The offer of a franchise can only be made through the delivery of a franchise disclosure document. Certain states require that we register the franchise disclosure document in those states. We will not offer or sell franchises in those states until we have registered to do so (or obtained an applicable exemption from registration) and delivered the franchise disclosure document to the prospective franchisee in compliance with applicable law.
What it Takes toBecome a Franchisee
liquid capital requirement
$250,000
net worth requirement
$550,000
initial franchise fee
$35,000
minimum credit score
700
Because our company holds our family name and family recipes, we’re dedicated to continuing the family tradition. Each and every day, I’m honored to have this legacy passed on to us.
Anthony Russo, CEO and Founder Russo’s New York Pizzeria
Russo's is Expanding
Interested in owning a Russo's New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen? Explore available territories in the U.S. or internationally.
